{
  "id": 3020308,
  "title": "This new Leica M lens recreates the magic and beauty of a 1930s British classic",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/24/this-new-leica-m-lens-recreates-the-magic-and-beauty-of-a-1930s",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-24T11:53:30.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Digital Camera World",
    "slug": "digital-camera-world",
    "url": "https://www.digitalcameraworld.com/cameras/lenses/this-new-leica-m-lens-recreates-the-magic-and-beauty-of-a-1930s-british-classic"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "DK-Optic has introduced a striking new 50mm lens for Leica M-mount cameras, called the Chiaro 50mm f/1.9. This lens draws inspiration from the iconic Dallmeyer Super Six 2-inch F1.9, a celebrated British lens from the 1930s. DK-Optic has meticulously rebuilt the concept using modern materials and manufacturing tolerances, resulting in a manual-focus lens designed to bring out the softer tonal transitions, atmosphere, and depth reminiscent of vintage glass.\n\nThe lens performs best when shot wide open at f/1.9, producing a softer, more characterful rendering before becoming clearer and more defined as the aperture is stopped down. This unique behavior allows photographers to alter the lens's personality based on its usage. The Chiaro 50mm f/1.9 is available in two versions: the Blue Coating model enhances color reproduction and contrast, while the uncoated version embraces the flare, glow, and light bleeding often found in older optics.\n\nThere are only 150 examples of this lens worldwide, making it an exclusive option for Leica M system photographers seeking something different from conventional 50mm lenses. Priced at $1,599, the lens features a simple six-element, four-group optical design, a f/1.9 to f/22 aperture range, and a minimum focusing distance of 0.75m. Weighing just 178g, the lens is compact at 52mm in diameter and 46mm in length, with a body temperature-coupled to Leica M cameras' rangefinder system.",
  "summary": "A legendary 1930s British lens has been reborn for modern Leica M cameras",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}